John Plasse, a retired Sergeant Major, recently passed away on 24 July 2024 at the age of 60. According to a report, Plasse died after a two-year battle with pancreatic cancer.
During his first term as Vigo County Sheriff, he was first diagnosed with stage 1B pancreatic cancer in May 2019. In 2022, Plasse was reelected and began the second term with cancer in 2023.
His courageous battle with cancer during his second term highlighted not only his dedication but also his remarkable resilience. Renowned for his unwavering commitment to law enforcement, Plasse’s legacy reaches far beyond the time he spent as sheriff.
In this article, we will go through the Sheriff’s personal and professional life, exploring his early life, family, career, death and funeral. It will be like Vigo County Sheriff John Plasse’s obituary.
Who was John Plasse?
John Plasse was a retired Sergeant Major with the 38th Infantry Division in the Indiana Army National Guard. He was born on 2 October 1963 in Terre Haute to Eli John Plasse and Violet Marie Traverse Plasse.
His childhood was highly shaped by a strong sense of community and an inborn need to support others. After his high school diploma, Plasse continued toward higher studies and on the career path as an enforcer of the law.
Family
John Plasse’s personal life was characterized by the strength of his family ties and his own remarkable fortitude. He was a married man blessed with a son and two beautiful daughters. His wife is Julie Plasse, son, Ryan Plasse, and daughters, Bryttany Dunkley and Dylaney Plasse.
Plasse also has a brother named Robert David Plasse and a sister, Carol Jones. Throughout his career and his fight against cancer, he drew support from those he cherished. His family offered steadfast encouragement, empowering him to serve with both dedication and resilience.
His fight with cancer was a shining example of courage and resilience.
Despite the challenges he faced, Plasse remained steadfast in his commitment to his role as sheriff, showcasing both remarkable strength and unwavering dedication.
Career
At the beginning of his career, John Plasse joined the Terre Haute Police Department (THPD). He began as a patrol officer. His unwavering dedication and remarkable skills soon shone through.
With relentless effort and determination, Plasse ascended the ranks, ultimately emerging as a distinguished figure within the department. He was promoted to Sergeant and Lieutenant and later appointed as Chief of Police.
In 2018, Plasse retired from the Terre Haute Police Department after 33 years of his service. During his 33 years of service, he was assigned to the criminal investigation division, juvenile division and Vigo County Drug Task Force.
Military Service
John Plasse did not stop; he went even longer. He spent 34 years in the Indiana Army National Guard, where he climbed the rank to Sergeant Major. In particular, he did tours in Afghanistan and Guantanamo Bay.
During these deployments, Plasse showed outstanding leadership and tactical acumen.
His endeavors in national security and military operations were immense; he embodied conformity to his country and fellow comrades. Military service for him merged beautifully with his law enforcement career, citing various talents and commitment to public service.
Achievements
During his 33-year service for the Terre Haute Police Department, John Plasse gained several accolades. In 2001, he was named Exchange Club of Terre Haute Officer of the Year.
While serving as Vigo County Sheriff, Plasse gained several awards, such as Bronze Star medal, Defense Meritorious Service medal, Army Commendation medal, National Defense Medal and many more.
He was also inducted into the Association of Marksman in the National Guard Shooters Hall of Fame in 2018.
When and Where Did Vigo County Sheriff John Plasse Die?
Vigo County Sheriff John Plasse passed away on Wednesday, 24 July 2024. Unfortunately, there is no information regarding the place of his death.
How Did John Plasse Die?
Vigo County Sheriff John Plasse died after a courageous battle with cancer. He was diagnosed when he became Vigo County Sheriff, an era marked by his dedication to serving, even in significant health battles.
Plasse’s illness posed a considerable challenge, yet he remained steadfast in his responsibilities as sheriff even during his treatment.
Funeral Services
John Plasse was remembered with a series of memorial services and public tributes after his death. These services were held on 29 July 2024 at 2:00 pm at Hulman Civic Center, 200 North 8th Street, Terre Haute, IN 47809.
Plasse’s burial was at Highland Lawn Cemetery in Soldiers Circle.
The services started with the customary procession, with fellow officers, military, and citizens coming together to pay tribute to him. The community of Vigo County grieves as they reflect on a colossal void he has left behind with his passing.
Legacy and Impact on Vigo County Law Enforcement
As Sheriff of Vigo County, John Plasse left an indelible mark on the community he served. His leadership shone through in his unwavering commitment to public safety and active community involvement. The trust and respect he garnered from the residents of Vigo County were beautifully reflected in his re-election.
In the wake of his death, the community chose to remember him by having flags flown at half-staff. This poignant gesture expressed the deep sense of loss many had experienced and was a tribute to his contributions for the county. Plasse’s legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and the strides made with local law enforcement.
Wrapping Up
John Plasse’s lifelong service makes for a poignant reminder of how dedicated, selfless people can impact their communities. His contributions in law enforcement and the military have left an indelible mark on Vigo County.
Reflecting on his career, as well as personal sacrifices he had made, drives the significance to honor leaders such as John Plasse. His legacy will continue through the untold lives that he touched and the improvements that were brought into public safety and community relations.
